The Dawn of Skin Regeneration: Unlocking the Future of Youthful Skin

Table of Contents

1. Key Highlights:
2. Introduction
3. Pioneering Technologies and Regenerative Mechanisms
4. Expert Perspectives on Regenerative Potential
5. The Role of Functional Medicine and Holistic Approaches
6. The Promise and Peril of Emerging Skincare Innovations
7. Integrating New Technologies with Established Practices

Key Highlights:

• Next-generation skincare and in-clinic treatments are shifting from maintenance to active regeneration, leveraging biotechnology and functional medicine to potentially reverse signs of skin aging.
• Exosomes, epigenetic reprogramming, and advanced cellular communication are at the forefront of this revolution, with new devices and topical formulations aiming to accelerate natural skin renewal.
• While promising, many of these cutting-edge technologies are still emerging, lacking extensive long-term clinical trials or FDA approval, necessitating a cautious and evidence-based approach.

Introduction

For decades, the pursuit of youthful skin has centered on slowing the inevitable march of time, focusing on maintenance, damage control, and the subtle softening of wrinkles. Skincare routines, cosmetic procedures, and even surgical interventions have largely aimed to preserve the status quo or provide temporary improvements. However, a significant paradigm shift is underway, propelled by remarkable advancements in biotechnology, cellular science, and functional medicine. The conversation is no longer merely about preserving youth but about actively regenerating it. A new era of skin renewal is dawning, promising not just smaller pores or fewer lines, but the potential for truly "new" skin, a literal rewind of the biological clock.

This ambitious claim is underpinned by an array of innovative treatments and products, from high-tech domes utilizing light therapy and exosome biotechnology to sophisticated topical serums designed to optimize cellular environments. The buzzwords echoing through the halls of leading clinics and laboratories—exosomes, epigenetic reprogramming, and regenerative technologies—point to a future where skin isn't just cared for, but fundamentally renewed. This article delves into the science behind these groundbreaking innovations, explores the perspectives of leading experts, and navigates the exciting yet cautious path toward a future where our skin might truly go back in time.

Pioneering Technologies and Regenerative Mechanisms

The concept of skin regeneration is no longer confined to the realm of science fiction; it is rapidly becoming a tangible reality, driven by a confluence of advanced technologies and a deeper understanding of cellular biology. At the heart of this revolution are several key mechanisms, each offering a unique pathway to revitalizing the skin at a fundamental level.

One of the most talked-about innovations is the Exosome Dome, exemplified by the offering from facialist Pietro Simone in New York City. This unique device represents a multi-modal approach to skin renewal, integrating light therapy, environmental purification, "energetic healing," and crucially, exosome biotechnology. The core promise lies in its ability to harness the skin’s inherent cellular communication pathways, thereby accelerating natural regeneration. The environment within the dome is designed to optimize conditions for cellular repair and revitalization, creating an immersive experience that goes beyond traditional topical applications.

Another groundbreaking device making waves is the German-made Human Regenerator. This space-age-looking machine employs Cold Atmospheric Plasma (CAP) to stimulate cellular repair. CAP works by generating a low-temperature plasma that interacts with biological tissues, inducing a range of beneficial effects. These include the stimulation of cellular repair mechanisms, enhancement of microcirculation, and a significant boost in Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP) production. ATP is the primary energy currency of the cell; increased ATP levels provide the necessary fuel for cellular functions, including repair, replication, and overall metabolic activity. By enhancing ATP, the Human Regenerator aims to re-energize skin cells, allowing them to function more efficiently and effectively, thereby promoting a more youthful cellular state.

Beyond these high-tech devices, the field of exosome biotechnology is emerging as a cornerstone of regenerative aesthetics. Exosomes are tiny extracellular vesicles, essentially microscopic packages released by cells. They play a crucial role in intercellular communication, transporting a diverse cargo of lipids, proteins, messenger RNA (mRNA), and microRNAs (miRNAs) between cells. This cargo influences the recipient cells' behavior, enabling them to communicate and coordinate various biological processes. In the context of skin regeneration, exosomes act as "messengers" that deliver vital signals to skin cells, instructing them to repair, regenerate, and produce essential components like collagen and elastin more efficiently.

The application of exosome science is manifesting in various forms, from advanced topical formulations to in-clinic treatments like "Vampire" exosome facials or PRP Exosome facials. These treatments leverage the communicative power of exosomes to optimize regeneration, essentially providing the skin with the biological instructions it needs to rejuvenate itself. The idea is to amplify the skin's inherent capacity for self-repair, guiding it towards a more youthful and resilient state.

The convergence of these technologies—light therapy, cold atmospheric plasma, and exosome biotechnology—represents a significant leap forward from conventional anti-aging methods. Instead of merely addressing symptoms like wrinkles or sagging, these innovations target the root causes of aging at the cellular and molecular level, aiming to restore the skin's youthful functionality and appearance from within. This holistic approach signals a profound shift in how we conceive of and pursue skin vitality.

Expert Perspectives on Regenerative Potential

The audacious claim of "reversing our skin's age" is met with both excitement and a healthy dose of scientific scrutiny within the rapidly expanding longevity sphere. Experts in this field largely agree on the immense potential for regeneration, though often with nuanced perspectives on the current state of the science and the realistic outcomes.

Dr. Mark Hyman, a prominent functional medicine doctor and founder of RoseBar, a leading biohacking clinic at the Six Senses Ibiza, is a strong proponent of the body's intrinsic regenerative capabilities. He asserts that "The human body has immense healing, repair, and regenerative capacity," and that various practices can activate "longevity switches." Dr. Hyman points to treatments like "Vampire" exosome facials, the Human Regenerator, and Ozone Therapy as cutting-edge mechanisms that, when combined with foundational health practices (diet, sleep, exercise), hold the potential to slow and even reverse signs of aging. His personal anecdote of reducing his biological age by four years serves as a compelling, albeit individual, testament to these methods. While enthusiastic about these emerging technologies, Dr. Hyman acknowledges that much of the science he references is still nascent, lacking extensive long-term clinical trials, applied peer-reviewed research, or FDA approval. This highlights the delicate balance between pioneering innovation and established scientific validation.

Leading figures in the skincare industry, particularly those at the helm of high-end, science-backed brands, echo this optimism, albeit with more tempered language regarding the immediate "reversal" of age. Professor Augustinus Bader, the renowned stem cell scientist behind the eponymous skincare line, emphasizes the sophisticated yet gentle nature of new biotechnological advances. He notes, "The focus is shifting toward understanding cellular communication and the microenvironment—how to create the right conditions for the body to heal and renew itself." This perspective underscores a shift from aggressive interventions to fostering an optimal internal environment for skin health. Professor Bader also foresees a future of personalized diagnostics, allowing for treatments tailored in real-time to an individual's unique biology, representing a significant advancement in precision skincare. His brand's latest offering, The Elixir, embodies this philosophy, designed to create an "ideal environment" for skin cell regeneration through a proprietary phytopeptide blend and exosome science, ensuring maximum absorption and accelerated cellular turnover.

Gucci Westman, the acclaimed makeup artist and founder of Westman Atelier, also highlights the transformative power of exosomes. "Exosomes are one of the most powerful ways to deliver actives to the skin," she states, likening them to "tiny messengers between cells, delivering the actives and helping our skin to repair and renew." Her brand's Eye Activator, which encapsulates a proprietary peptide and niacinamide blend in exosome technology, demonstrates the precision with which these "messengers" can be directed within the skin, ensuring targeted delivery and enhanced efficacy.

Dr. Barbara Sturm, another luminary in the skincare world, has been exploring exosome science for over two decades, culminating in her Exosometic End Level collection. Her formulations aim to restore youthful skin function, enhancing strength and elasticity through regenerative processes.

However, not all experts are unreservedly optimistic about every new claim. Dr. Benjie Limketkai PhD, Chief Technology Officer at Noble Panacea, a biotech skincare brand founded by a Nobel Prize-winning chemist, urges caution. While acknowledging the proliferation of formulations aimed at stimulating skin renewal, he warns against "unsubstantiated claims." Dr. Limketkai stresses the importance of understanding molecular interactions, stating, "Throwing in ingredients with the hope they will deliver the expected skin benefits is unrealistic when you understand the interactions between molecules." This perspective underscores the need for rigorous scientific validation and a deep understanding of how ingredients truly interact within the skin's complex biological systems.

Dr. Georgina Williams, a consultant plastic and reconstructive surgeon and co-founder of Montrose London, provides a critical clinical perspective. She emphasizes that while these developments are "exciting," it is "essential to separate well-founded innovation from premature marketing." Dr. Williams advocates for evidence-based research-backed in-clinic treatments as the gold standard, citing "biostimulatory injectables, platelet-rich plasma, and laser/light therapies like HALO and BBL" as currently highly efficacious for addressing pigmentation, fine lines, and other signs of aging. She recommends well-formulated topicals as complementary to these more impactful in-office procedures.

Dr. Williams offers a pragmatic view on the ultimate promise: "The notion of ‘bringing skin back in time’ through cell renewal is compelling, but expectations must be realistic. While we can meaningfully improve skin tone, elasticity, and texture through a number of treatments, there is no intervention—topical or procedural—that truly resets the biological age of the skin." This crucial distinction highlights that while significant improvements are achievable, a complete "reset" remains aspirational. She concludes by describing regenerative aesthetics as a "thrilling frontier—but one that needs to be navigated with caution," underscoring the ongoing need for expert consultation and robust research as these fields continue to evolve.

The collective wisdom of these experts paints a picture of a rapidly advancing field brimming with potential, yet one that demands discerning judgment and a commitment to scientific rigor. The future of skin regeneration is undoubtedly promising, but it is a future that requires careful navigation and realistic expectations.

The Role of Functional Medicine and Holistic Approaches

The emerging landscape of skin regeneration is not solely defined by cutting-edge devices and novel biotechnologies; it is also deeply intertwined with the principles of functional medicine and holistic wellness. This integrated approach recognizes that skin health is a reflection of overall bodily health, and true regeneration often requires addressing systemic factors in addition to topical or localized treatments.

Functional medicine, as championed by experts like Dr. Mark Hyman, emphasizes identifying and addressing the root causes of disease and dysfunction, rather than merely treating symptoms. In the context of aging skin, this means looking beyond visible wrinkles or pigmentation to investigate underlying issues such as chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, nutrient deficiencies, gut dysbiosis, hormonal imbalances, and inadequate detoxification pathways. These internal factors can significantly impact cellular health, including the skin's ability to repair and regenerate itself.

For instance, chronic systemic inflammation can accelerate the breakdown of collagen and elastin, leading to premature aging. A functional medicine approach would seek to identify and mitigate the sources of this inflammation, which could range from dietary triggers (e.g., highly processed foods, excessive sugar) to environmental toxins or unresolved infections. Similarly, oxidative stress, caused by an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants, damages cellular components, including DNA and proteins crucial for skin integrity. Functional medicine interventions would focus on boosting antioxidant defenses through diet, supplements, and lifestyle modifications.

The concept of "longevity switches," as mentioned by Dr. Hyman, refers to cellular pathways that regulate aging and resilience. These include pathways like mTOR (mammalian target of rapamycin), AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase), and sirtuins, which are influenced by diet, exercise, and certain compounds. By optimizing these internal pathways through lifestyle interventions and targeted nutraceuticals, functional medicine aims to enhance the body's innate capacity for self-repair and regeneration, which naturally extends to the skin.

This holistic perspective extends to the understanding that external treatments, however advanced, are often more effective when combined with a supportive internal environment. Dr. Hyman explicitly states that cutting-edge mechanisms like the Human Regenerator are most impactful "when paired with the basics" such as a balanced diet, proper sleep, and regular exercise. These fundamental pillars of health provide the cellular building blocks, energy, and restorative processes necessary for any regenerative treatment to yield optimal results. For example, adequate sleep allows for cellular repair and hormone regulation, while nutrient-dense foods provide the vitamins, minerals, and amino acids essential for collagen synthesis and antioxidant protection.

Biohacking clinics, such as RoseBar at Six Senses Ibiza, exemplify this integrated approach. They offer a blend of advanced technologies (like exosome treatments and the Human Regenerator) alongside comprehensive wellness programs that encompass personalized nutrition, stress management techniques, detoxification protocols, and fitness regimens. The idea is that true regeneration is not a single treatment but a synergistic combination of external innovations and internal optimization. The luxurious setting of such clinics, with their emphasis on relaxation and well-being, further underscores the belief that a calm, balanced internal state is conducive to healing and renewal.

Moreover, the functional medicine lens encourages a personalized approach to skin health. Recognizing that each individual's biological makeup and lifestyle factors are unique, treatments are tailored to address specific imbalances and needs. This contrasts with a one-size-fits-all approach, paving the way for more effective and sustainable results in the quest for skin regeneration. The synergy between advanced biotechnological interventions and the foundational principles of functional medicine represents a powerful frontier in the journey towards lasting skin vitality.

The Promise and Peril of Emerging Skincare Innovations

The landscape of skincare is undeniably undergoing a seismic shift, moving beyond mere cosmetic enhancements to embrace true biological transformation. The promise of "new skin" and "biological age reversal" is compelling, yet it comes with inherent complexities and a need for discerning evaluation. Understanding both the exciting potential and the critical challenges is paramount for consumers and practitioners alike.

The Allure of Accelerated Renewal: The core appeal of these emerging innovations lies in their departure from traditional anti-aging methods. Instead of simply masking imperfections or temporarily tightening skin, technologies like exosome delivery, cold atmospheric plasma, and sophisticated peptide blends aim to fundamentally reprogram cellular behavior. This means:

• Enhanced Cellular Communication: Exosomes, acting as cellular messengers, promise to re-establish youthful communication networks within the skin, guiding cells to repair damage, produce vital proteins (collagen, elastin), and function optimally. This direct cellular instruction could lead to more profound and lasting improvements than surface-level treatments.
• Boosted Cellular Energy: Devices like the Human Regenerator, by increasing ATP production, offer to re-energize tired, aging cells. With more energy, cells can perform their regenerative functions more efficiently, leading to faster turnover, improved repair, and a more vibrant appearance.
• Targeted Delivery and Precision: Brands like Westman Atelier and Augustinus Bader highlight the ability of new formulations to deliver active ingredients with unprecedented precision. Encapsulation technologies and optimized delivery systems ensure that potent compounds reach their intended cellular targets, maximizing efficacy and minimizing waste. This precision is a significant upgrade from older topical applications where much of the active ingredient might not penetrate effectively.
• Creation of Optimal Microenvironments: Professor Bader's focus on creating the "ideal environment" for skin cells to regenerate speaks to a holistic understanding of cellular health. This involves not just introducing beneficial compounds but ensuring the surrounding cellular matrix is conducive to growth, repair, and resilience.

The Perils and Practical Realities: Despite the exciting potential, the nascent stage of many of these technologies necessitates a cautious approach. Several critical factors demand attention:

• Lack of Long-Term Clinical Trials: As Dr. Hyman and Dr. Williams point out, much of the science behind these emerging treatments is still "emerging," lacking extensive long-term clinical trials. While initial results may be promising, the sustained efficacy and safety profiles over many years are yet to be fully established. This is a crucial distinction from well-researched and FDA-approved treatments.
• Absence of FDA Approval (for many devices/treatments): Regulatory bodies like the FDA require rigorous testing and evidence of both safety and efficacy before granting approval. Many of the cutting-edge devices and exosome-based treatments have not yet undergone or received such approvals, meaning their claims are not yet fully validated by independent regulatory oversight. Consumers must be aware that "new" does not automatically equate to "proven safe and effective."
• Unsubstantiated Claims and Marketing Hype: Dr. Benjie Limketkai PhD wisely warns against the "proliferation of products, often accompanied by unsubstantiated claims." The allure of "reversing age" can lead to aggressive marketing that outpaces scientific evidence. Consumers need to be highly discerning, looking for transparent data, peer-reviewed research, and expert consensus rather than relying solely on marketing rhetoric. "Throwing in ingredients with the hope they will deliver the expected skin benefits is unrealistic when you understand the interactions between molecules," he notes, underscoring the complexity of formulation science.
• Realistic Expectations: Dr. Georgina Williams provides a vital dose of realism: "The notion of ‘bringing skin back in time’ through cell renewal is compelling, but expectations must be realistic. While we can meaningfully improve skin tone, elasticity, and texture through a number of treatments, there is no intervention—topical or procedural—that truly resets the biological age of the skin." This means while significant improvements are achievable, a complete "rewind" to a teenage complexion is not currently a scientific reality.
• Cost and Accessibility: Many of these cutting-edge treatments and high-end products come with a substantial price tag, making them inaccessible to the average consumer. This raises questions of equity and highlights that the "future of skincare" might, for now, remain a luxury.
• Need for Expert Consultation: Given the complexity and novelty of these treatments, expert consultation is paramount. Dr. Williams stresses the need for "expert consultation alongside increased research on each of these emerging skincare sciences." A qualified dermatologist or plastic surgeon can assess individual needs, recommend appropriate evidence-based treatments, and guide patients through the rapidly evolving landscape, differentiating between genuine innovation and premature marketing.

In conclusion, the frontier of regenerative aesthetics is indeed "thrilling," as Dr. Williams describes it, but it must be "navigated with caution." The blend of scientific promise and practical limitations defines this exciting new chapter in the quest for youthful skin. Informed decision-making, grounded in critical evaluation and expert guidance, will be essential for those seeking to explore these revolutionary approaches.

Integrating New Technologies with Established Practices

The excitement surrounding emerging regenerative technologies does not negate the value of established, evidence-based skincare practices and treatments. Instead, the most effective approach to skin health and rejuvenation often lies in a synergistic integration of the new with the tried and true. Experts consistently advocate for a balanced strategy that leverages the strengths of both.

The Foundational Role of Medical-Grade Treatments: Dr. Georgina Williams, a consultant plastic and reconstructive surgeon, underscores that "evidence-based research-backed in-clinic treatments still remain the gold standard approach." This is because these treatments have undergone rigorous clinical trials, demonstrating their safety and efficacy over time. Examples of such gold standards include:

• Biostimulatory Injectables: These injectables, such as Sculptra or Radiesse, work by stimulating the body's natural collagen production over time, leading to gradual and natural-looking volume restoration and improvement in skin quality. Unlike traditional fillers that simply add volume, biostimulators actively engage the skin's regenerative capacity.
• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP): Often referred to as "liquid gold," PRP involves drawing a small amount of the patient's blood, processing it to concentrate the platelets, and then reinjecting the platelet-rich plasma into the skin. Platelets contain numerous growth factors that stimulate collagen production, improve skin texture, and accelerate healing. PRP can be used alone or in conjunction with microneedling or laser treatments.
• Laser and Light Therapies (e.g., HALO, BBL): These advanced energy-based devices target specific skin concerns like pigmentation, fine lines, and texture irregularities. HALO is a hybrid fractional laser that combines ablative and non-ablative wavelengths to treat both the surface and deeper layers of the skin, promoting significant resurfacing and collagen remodeling. BroadBand Light (BBL) therapy uses intense pulsed light to address sun damage, redness, and improve overall skin tone and elasticity. These treatments offer proven, impactful results for addressing signs of aging.

These established in-clinic procedures provide a robust foundation for significant skin improvement. They are backed by years of research and clinical experience, offering predictable and often dramatic outcomes for concerns like pigmentation, fine lines, and overall skin quality.

The Complementary Power of Advanced Topicals: While in-clinic treatments provide a powerful impetus for change, well-formulated topical skincare plays a crucial role in maintaining results, protecting the skin, and providing ongoing support for cellular health. As Dr. Williams suggests, topicals are "recommended in combination with more impactful in-office treatments as a part of a broader treatment plan."

The latest generation of topical products, featuring ingredients like exosomes, advanced peptides, and proprietary biotech complexes, are designed to work synergistically with professional procedures. For example:

• Exosome-infused serums: Products like Augustinus Bader's The Elixir or Westman Atelier's The Eye Activator, which leverage exosome technology, can enhance the skin's natural communication pathways. When used post-procedure, they can potentially accelerate healing, optimize the cellular environment for regeneration initiated by lasers or injectables, and prolong the benefits.
• Growth Factors and Peptides: These ingredients stimulate collagen and elastin production, improve skin repair, and enhance overall skin resilience. They act as signals to skin cells, encouraging them to behave more youthfully.
• Antioxidants: Ingredients like Vitamin C, E, and ferulic acid protect the skin from environmental damage (UV radiation, pollution) that can undermine regenerative efforts.
• Retinoids: Still considered a gold standard, retinoids (Vitamin A derivatives) accelerate cell turnover, stimulate collagen production, and improve skin texture and tone. They are essential for long-term skin health and anti-aging.

The integration strategy involves using these advanced topicals to prepare the skin for in-clinic treatments, optimize healing post-procedure, and provide continuous support for cellular regeneration at home. This multi-pronged approach ensures that the skin is not only treated for existing concerns but also fortified against future damage and continuously encouraged to renew itself.

Ultimately, the most successful approach to skin regeneration is not about choosing between new and old, but about intelligently combining them. A comprehensive plan, guided by a qualified expert, that incorporates evidence-based in-clinic procedures with cutting-edge, scientifically validated topical skincare, and a foundational commitment to holistic wellness, offers the most promising path towards achieving and maintaining truly youthful, resilient skin. This integrated strategy acknowledges that while new technologies are exciting frontiers, they are most impactful when built upon a foundation of proven science and personalized care.

FAQ

Q1: What exactly are exosomes and how do they work in skincare? A1: Exosomes are tiny, nano-sized vesicles released by cells that act as messengers, carrying proteins, lipids, and genetic material (RNA) from one cell to another. In skincare, they are utilized to facilitate intercellular communication, essentially delivering signals to skin cells that instruct them to repair, regenerate, and produce vital components like collagen and elastin more efficiently. They can enhance the skin's natural healing processes and improve overall vitality and resilience. Think of them as tiny biological packages that deliver beneficial instructions to skin cells, optimizing their function and promoting a more youthful state.

Q2: Is "reversing" skin age a realistic goal with these new technologies? A2: Experts generally agree that while significant improvements in skin tone, elasticity, and texture are achievable, a complete "reset" of the skin's biological age is not yet a scientific reality. Technologies like exosomes and advanced devices can meaningfully enhance the skin's regenerative capacity, making it function and appear more youthful. However, they do not literally turn back the biological clock to a prior age. The goal is to optimize the skin's health and appearance by improving its cellular function, rather than achieving a complete reversal of the aging process. Realistic expectations are crucial.

Q3: What are the main differences between traditional anti-aging products and these new regenerative technologies? A3: Traditional anti-aging products often focus on addressing symptoms of aging, such as reducing the appearance of wrinkles, hydrating dry skin, or evening out skin tone. They typically work by providing surface-level benefits or protecting against further damage. New regenerative technologies, on the other hand, aim to work at a deeper cellular and molecular level. They seek to activate the skin's inherent repair and renewal mechanisms, improve cellular communication, boost cellular energy (ATP), and create an optimal environment for cells to regenerate. The shift is from maintenance and symptom management to active biological transformation and restoration of youthful function.

Q4: Are these new treatments and products safe, and are they FDA-approved? A4: The safety and regulatory status of these innovations vary. Many of the cutting-edge devices and exosome-based treatments are still considered "emerging" technologies, meaning they may not have undergone extensive long-term clinical trials or received full FDA approval for all their stated claims. While some components or ingredients might be approved, the specific applications in regenerative aesthetics may still be under research. It is crucial for consumers to research thoroughly, seek treatments from reputable clinics, and consult with qualified dermatologists or plastic surgeons who can provide evidence-based advice on safety and efficacy, and distinguish between well-founded innovation and premature marketing.

Q5: How do functional medicine and holistic approaches fit into skin regeneration? A5: Functional medicine and holistic approaches emphasize that skin health is intrinsically linked to overall bodily health. They aim to identify and address the root causes of skin aging, such as chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, nutrient deficiencies, or hormonal imbalances, which can impact cellular function. By optimizing internal health through diet, sleep, exercise, stress management, and targeted supplementation, functional medicine creates an ideal internal environment that supports and enhances the effectiveness of external regenerative treatments. This integrated approach ensures that the skin is not only treated from the outside but also nourished and supported from within, leading to more sustainable and comprehensive results.

Q6: Should I ditch my current skincare routine for these new technologies? A6: Not necessarily. Experts often recommend integrating new, scientifically validated technologies with established, evidence-based skincare practices. A comprehensive approach typically involves a combination of medical-grade in-clinic treatments (like lasers, injectables, or PRP), advanced topical skincare products (including those with exosomes or peptides), and a commitment to overall healthy lifestyle habits. Your current routine might still be valuable for maintenance and protection, but adding targeted regenerative treatments under expert guidance can amplify results. It's best to consult with a skincare professional to create a personalized plan that balances both.